Sierra Leone has once again expressed its unwavering support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the sole credible, serious, and realistic solution to the ongoing Sahara dispute. The West African nation reaffirmed its commitment to the Moroccan initiative during a joint statement issued following high-level talks between Morocco’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Nasser Bourita, and his Sierra Leonean counterpart, Timothy Musa Kabba, on 23 April in Rabat.
Sierra Leone’s endorsement of Morocco’s territorial integrity has been further solidified by the establishment of a consulate general in Dakhla in 2021. This tangible step underscores Sierra Leone’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty in the disputed region. The opening of the consulate serves as a testament to the growing bilateral relations between the two countries.
Sierra Leone actively participated in the Ministerial Conference held in January 2021, which was convened by the United States and Morocco. During this conference, Sierra Leone lent its support to Morocco’s autonomy initiative, emphasizing the Kingdom’s full sovereignty over the southern provinces of Sahara. The conference provided a platform for like-minded nations to rally behind a pragmatic approach to resolving the longstanding conflict.
Additionally, Sierra Leone reiterated its backing for the UN-led political process, aimed at achieving a realistic, practical, and lasting solution to the Sahara dispute. The country recognizes the importance of international cooperation and dialogue in finding a path forward.
Sierra Leone joins a growing list of countries that have publicly endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan. Nations such as Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Liberia have echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the plan’s credibility and feasibility. These countries appreciate Morocco’s commendable development efforts in the southern provinces of Sahara and are committed to strengthening their ties with the North African nation through South-South cooperation.
As the Sahara dispute continues to be a focal point on the international stage, Sierra Leone’s steadfast support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan contributes to the pursuit of a just and lasting resolution.
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